The pupils are among thousands across the country gearing up to produce culinary creations designed by Mr McGregor, in the hope of winning more than $165,000 in kitchenware for their school kitchens, as part of the 2013 Let's Cook with Parmco programme.
Mr McGregor, who in 2010 was New Zealand's first Masterchef winner, is helping schools inspire pupils to get adventurous and passionate about making healthy food from all over the world with their classmates and families.
''Kids these days have been inspired by the many cooking programmes on TV and they're keen to make more than just the traditional basic dishes,'' Mr McGregor said this week.
''Let's Cook with Parmco is about showing kids, teachers and parents, that cooking more sophisticated food with fresh ingredients is not difficult.''
''We want to help kids and their parents connect with cooking so they know how easy it is to prepare healthy, nutritious food that tastes delicious.''
About 400 primary and secondary schools nationwide signed up for last year's programme, and the competition includes the chance to vote for the schools taking part.
Last year more than 60,000 votes were received.
''I'm urging all schools to get involved, get kids cooking and encourage their communities to vote for the most enthusiastic school.''
Mr McGregor, who was a teacher before winning Masterchef, said all schools had a chance to win a classroom full of modern kitchen appliances, so they could put their new culinary skills to the test.
